Whitehorse Public Librarian

This posting is for one (1) full-time term position until September 2028, working 75 hours bi-weekly. Temporary Assignments will also be considered.

Who we are

As the Yukon government’s most diverse department, Community Services has a place for you. Under the Community Services umbrella, there are 18 unique branches where you can apply your skillset. All branches strive to empower communities to be vibrant, healthy, and sustainable. Community Services develops our team and invests in people so together we can equip Yukon communities with the tools and knowledge to foster a higher quality of life for all Yukoners.

As one of Canada’s Top 100 Employers for 2025 a career with Yukon Government’s public service offers you an opportunity to expand your skillset and build relationships with stakeholders and colleagues. Learn more about what Yukon Government can offer you.

About the branch

Yukon Public Libraries is made up of 15 public libraries throughout the Yukon, with the bulk of the administrative work occurring at the central branch at Whitehorse Public Library. Our work is situated in the beautiful Kwanlin Dün Cultural Centre, next to the Yukon River, and close to coffee shops and walking trails. Yukon Public Libraries staff are part of a diverse and dedicated team of library professionals who value work-life balance, professional development, and are passionate about public service.

Your impact

Yukon Public Libraries are valued hubs in each community. As a small jurisdiction in a large geographical area, we have the unique ability to work directly with various stakeholders and to see the positive impact of our efforts every day. No two days are the same, and we like it that way.

About the job

Reporting to the Director, Public Libraries, the Whitehorse Public Librarian is an integral part of public library service in Whitehorse, leading the circulation supervisor, library techs, and library assistants in the delivery of high-quality library services to the public and ensuring operational requirements are met. The position is also responsible for overseeing the operations of Whitehorse Public Library, including liaising with property management and the landlord to resolve building issues. The Whitehorse Librarian is a member of the Library Management and Collection Development teams, assists with the Whitehorse Library Board and Friends of the Library group, and advises the Director on effective and appropriate services to the public.

For more information about the role, please contact: Sarah Gallagher, Director, Yukon Public Libraries at [email protected].

For more information about the organization and recruitment process, please contact: Brooke Schmidt, Human Resource Consultant II at [email protected].

What you need to consider before submitting your application:

• Prior to submitting your resume an E-recruitment profile must be created as applications are only accepted through the system. Please do not email your resume to the contacts on the ad.
• Resumes are ONLY assessed based off candidates’ ability to communicate how they have demonstrated the essential qualifications from their professional, volunteer, or educational experience within their resume clearly indicating the specific position the responsibilities or duties were performed.
• Candidates must clearly state the length of time they performed the essential qualifications in their role(s) (ex. month/year to month/year).
• Take advantage of learning more about how to prepare your resume for a government recruitment. Please note cover letters are not required unless clearly indicated on the job ad.

Essential Qualifications

Please submit your resume clearly demonstrating how you meet the following qualifications. Please note that selection for further consideration will be based solely on the information you provide in your resume.

• Masters in Library Science from an accredited university
• Experience using library research and reference tools, including integrated library systems (ILS)
• Experience developing library programs and/or services to the public
• Experience in leading a team
• Experience with HR practices in a union environment would be considered an asset
• Experience collaborating with volunteer boards and committees would be considered an asset.

Candidates who have education, training, and/or experience equivalent to the above qualifications may be equally considered.

Desired Knowledge, Skills, and Suitability

These are competencies and/or job specific proficiencies that are effective to be successful in the role and may be assessed during the recruitment process.

• Knowledge of public libraries theory and practice, and current trends
• Ability to work in a busy and challenging environment and adapt to competing priorities
• Ability to effectively manage and de-escalate conflict, navigate challenging interactions, and maintain positive working relationships with staff, and clients
• Ability to work as part of a team
• Ability to carry out a wide range of public library projects such as reference, collection development, and program planning
• Ability to support and provide leadership to library staff
• Ability to take initiative, exercise good judgment and make sound decisions
• Ability to create a client focused culture and engage others in providing outstanding service

Job Requirements

• Librarians work on rotation. Hours could include some evenings and weekends.